Until the day dementia hits, I will remember this summer. It was infused with grief over Zoe’s illness and death, while packed with activity and visitors–an odd mix of sorrow and happiness. It was wonderful to have our scattered family members come here to spend time with us. We miss them. So all through August’s hot and sunny weather, we played, ate, and explored midcoast Maine.
The past six weeks were such a whirlwind, that I was far too busy to do more than take an occasional peek at other blogs. Perhaps it’s a good gauge for me–when I’m too busy for any blogging, I’m just too busy. It is definitely time to slow down.
Now, as the visiting winds down, we are looking forward to September’s serenity and chill.
Here’s a taste of August and early September:

Opening the hive with a granddaughter apprentice (thanks to my daughter for this shot)

Our other granddaughter looked like a scarlet apparition among these plein air painters
We took full advantage of the Union Fair’s free rides with admission policy. And the animals were lovely, as always.

The two smallest on this ride belonged to us. Fearless.
We explored a few of Maine’s forts and lighthouses.

Thanks to my daughter for this shot.
We even went to the beach.
We feasted on garden veggies.
And took a ferry trip to Vinalhaven.
We watched butterflies, bees, and birds.

Our first monarch

A butterfly and hummingbird moth on the same blossom

It’s almost hard to see the honeybees on these sunflowers, the bees were so packed with pollen
Everywhere we went on the ocean, we saw sails. Someday I want to sail on one of these beauties.
And finally, on the first weekend of September, we brought home a pup.
Welcome to our world, little Capp.